Severe Economic Necessity

An F-1 student who has maintained F-1 status for one full academic year and is in good standing may apply for off-campus employment based on unforeseen severe economic hardship. To qualify for this type of employment, the student must document the economic hardship and show that part-time employment opportunities on campus are insufficient to meet the student’s needs. Economic hardship refers to financial problems caused by unforeseen circumstances beyond the student’s control.